Modular Projector System with Segmented Light Paths
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional movie projector systems have lossy concentrated light sources and conventional optics that can scatter light due to contaminants, leading to inefficiencies and potential failures.
Innovation Solution
A modular projector system comprising arrays of modules with light sources and light modulators, where each module projects light onto a screen with its own optical system, allowing for overlapping illumination patterns to cover the entire screen without regular patterns, thus avoiding seams and improving optical efficiency.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of energy
If conventional concentrated light sources and optics are used in movie projector systems, then the system structure is simple, but optical efficiency is lost due to scattering from contaminants and potential failures
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the projector system into multiple independent modules, each containing its own light source and optical system. This segmentation allows light to be distributed through multiple paths, reducing the impact of contaminants on any single optical element and improving overall optical efficiency while managing system complexity through modular design
2Reliability
If conventional optics are used, then the device structure is simple, but light scattering occurs due to contaminants leading to potential failures
Solution Approach 1:
The optical system is segmented into multiple independent modules with separate light sources and optical paths. This reduces the risk of system-wide failure from contaminants on any single optical element, as each module operates independently, thereby improving reliability while using standard optical components
Solution Approach 2:
The system design anticipates potential failures from contaminants by creating redundant optical paths through multiple modules. If one module degrades due to contamination, the other modules continue to function, providing a cushion against complete system failure and improving overall reliability
3Reliability
If modular system with multiple light sources is used, then optical efficiency is improved and reliability is enhanced, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system is divided into modular units that can be independently manufactured, tested, and assembled. This segmentation improves reliability through redundancy while managing complexity by using standardized modular components that simplify integration and maintenance
Solution Approach 2:
Each module is designed as a universal unit that can perform the complete function of light generation and projection. This multi-functionality allows the system to achieve high reliability through redundancy while keeping individual module complexity low, as each module is a self-contained standard unit
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The modular system enhances optical efficiency, reduces the risk of light scattering, and provides a robust solution by distributing light sources and optics to ensure every point on the screen is covered by multiple overlapping areas, improving image quality and reliability.
Implementation Method 1
A modular projector system comprising arrays of modules with light sources and light modulators
Data Source
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Figure 3
Figure 3A~5B
AI summary
Several embodiments of projection systems are disclosed that comprise a plurality of controllable emitters, each said emitter providing light for a light path; a plurality of first optical elements, each said first optical element receiving light from one of said emitters; a controllable modulator receiving light from said plurality of first optical elements; a plurality of conduits, each said conduit disposed over a portion of said controllable modulator; a plurality of second optical elements, each of said second optical elements receiving light from at least one of said plurality of conduits, and a controller for sending control signals to said controllable emitters and said controllable modulator. The illumination from the emitters may form a plurality of overlapping areas of illumination upon a projection screen where the image is intended to be formed.